Kenyan football mourns: Bandari Youth’s rising star Daudi Zakaria dies at 20

The Kenyan football fraternity is in mourning following the tragic passing of Bandari Youth FC’s striker, Daudi Zakaria, at the tender age of 20.

Hailing from Bangale in Garissa County, Zakaria was more than just a forward—he was a game-changer. His 23-goal haul in the FKF Coast Region League last season not only crowned him top scorer, but also spearheaded Bandari Youth’s historic promotion to FKF Division Two.

Head Coach Alex Shikanga, visibly shaken by the loss, praised Zakaria’s talent and fighting spirit both on and off the pitch.

“We are really hurt. But we accept the will of God,” he stated solemnly.

Zakaria had been battling dengue fever, a struggle that saw him in and out of medical care for months.

Despite a brief recovery and return to training, the illness resurfaced after a match against Sango Sportiff on May 3, 2025. His condition worsened in July, and he was moved from Mwingi Sub-County Hospital to Garissa County Referral Hospital, where he tragically passed away.

Coach Shikanga recalled Zakaria’s last days with the team.

“He kept saying he wasn’t okay. Even after we gave him time off, he never fully recovered.”

Bandari FC CEO Tony Kibwana expressed deep sorrow at the loss, calling Zakaria one of the most gifted players of his generation.

“He helped us win the Bingwafest Cup and was instrumental in our Division 2 promotion. We will dearly miss him,” noted Kibwana.